Gradstravaganza

Presenter: Jill V. Deering, Senior Assistant Dean for Student and Academic Affairs at the Schar School of Policy and Government

This session explored what students can expect during a master’s program at George Mason. Presenters shared strategies for making the most of the master’s degree experience, with guidance relevant to both part-time and full-time students.

Presenter: Student Panel

This session served as a guide to navigating life as a graduate student in Fairfax. Presenters shared information on housing options both on and off campus, transportation resources such as shuttles and Metro access, and practical tips for saving money, discovering local spots, and adjusting to a new environment. The session was designed to support students relocating from nearby or from abroad as they settled into life at George Mason.

Presenter: Vicki Dominick, MSEd, Associate Director, Learning Services

This session addressed the multiple academic and personal demands graduate students manage, including coursework, work, family, and wellness. Presenters shared proven productivity techniques and effective approaches to planning and managing academic responsibilities through intentional, goal-oriented use of time.

Presenter: Alexander Harrison, LPC, Associate Director, Clinical Services, Counseling and Psychological Services 

This workshop addressed the challenges of balancing graduate school with personal life and introduced evidence-based strategies for building resilience. Participants learned practical skills to help manage stress and support well-being both academically and personally.

Presented by Jessie Wiggins, PhD Candidate in Writing and Rhetoric; Graduate Teaching Assistant.

This session focused on common challenges graduate students face when working on large writing projects such as papers, theses, or dissertations. Presenters discussed frequent barriers to writing and shared practical strategies for overcoming them and making progress toward writing goals

Presenter: Margaret Calkins, Physical Sciences & STEM Data Librarian, Chris Magee, Social Sciences Librarian, University Libraries.

This session introduced essential research tools, resources, and services available to George Mason graduate students. Attendees learned how to identify, access, and search scholarly databases; navigate subject guides; and connect with subject librarians for research support. The session also highlighted University Dissertation & Thesis Services (UDTS), poster printing and data analysis support, Patriot Virtual Computing & Labs (PVCL), reservable study rooms, and other academic resources designed to support graduate research success.

Presenter: Carolyn Kleiman, Career Advisor, University Career Services

This session focused on helping incoming graduate students build a strong online presence through LinkedIn and personal branding. Presenters shared guidance on crafting a compelling LinkedIn profile, developing a clear professional narrative, and using LinkedIn strategically to support academic and career goals. The session was designed for graduate students across disciplines seeking to strengthen their professional visibility in a competitive market.

Presenter: Kristin Leonato, Associate Director, Programs and Outreach, University Career Services

This session highlighted the importance of networking during graduate school and explored strategies for building and expanding professional connections at Mason. Presenters shared tips to help students strengthen their networks and make the most of the relationships formed throughout their graduate experience.

Presenter: Jamilah Anderson, Associate Director, Disability Services, and Morgan Thompson, Analyst for Education and Strategic Initiatives, Disability Services

This session centered on fostering accessible and inclusive experiences for disabled and neurodivergent graduate students. Presenters discussed campus resources available to support disabled and neurodivergent students and shared strategies that promote student engagement and contribute to a more inclusive and thriving graduate community.

Presenters: Phil Eiseman, Licensed Clinical Psychologist Clinician, Inclusive Community Building 

This session explored the common but often unspoken experience of imposter syndrome, including persistent feelings of self-doubt and fear of being perceived as a fraud. Presenters discussed strategies for recognizing and quieting the inner critic, reframing negative self-talk, and developing a healthier, more compassionate mindset.

Presenters: Dr. Megan Bruening, Director of the Office of Fellowships

This session provided an overview of funding opportunities and support available to Mason graduate students. Presenters discussed how to identify external funding sources, including government agencies, foundations, and professional associations, and shared information about advising and support services offered through the Office of Fellowships to assist students pursuing funding for research, training, and professional development.

Presenter: Kaylie Wray, On-Campus Employment Specialist, University Career Services

This session addressed the process of finding on-campus employment and the range of opportunities available to graduate students at George Mason. University Career Services reviewed different types of on-campus positions, including graduate assistantships and student wage roles, along with job application best practices such as resumes, cover letters, and interviewing. The session also covered how to use Handshake effectively and how to assess fit for on-campus positions, helping students identify next steps in their job search for financial support, professional growth, and community engagement.

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